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Why Donkeys and mule nannies carry lambs down Italian mountains
Each year in Italy, a centuries-old practice known as transhumance takes place, where donkeys and mules help shepherds carry newborn lambs down mountains to grazing areas in the plains. This tradition, dating back over a thousand years, was recognized by UNESCO in 2019 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Transhumance—derived from the Latin words “trans” (beyond) and “humus” (Earth)—involves the seasonal movement of livestock from high alpine pastures to the plains of Lombardy for late-summer grazing. Although this tradition has become rare, it remains integral to Italy’s agricultural heritage.
During this journey, which can last between 10 and 20 days, shepherds guide large flocks, each with around 1,000 to 1,500 animals, along ancient migration paths known as batida. Cows, sheep, and donkeys make the trek on foot, but newborn lambs, too young to walk such distances, are carried in specially-made saddles on the backs of donkeys and mules. At rest stops lambs are returned to their mothers for nourishment and comfort before resuming their journey.
Preserving Tradition in a Changing World
The transhumance paths, far from the pastoral landscapes one might imagine, often pass through highly urbanized areas like the Po Valley, presenting unique challenges for the shepherds. While the routes may appear straightforward, they are deeply rooted in generations of tradition and require constant adaptation due to new roads, buildings, and farmland. Each year’s journey is similar yet distinct, continuously shaped by an evolving environment.
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Modern economic shifts have also influenced the practice. Whereas wool production was once a primary purpose, today’s market is more focused on meat, catering largely to Italy’s growing Muslim community. Despite these changes, a few dedicated shepherds continue the ancient practice, blending tradition with modern needs and demonstrating resilience in the face of change.
A Complex Cultural Legacy
Transhumance represents the migration of animals and symbolizes a rich cultural exchange among shepherds and their communities. In regions like Piedmont and Trentino-Alto Adige, this practice brings people together for seasonal gatherings marked by celebrations. In these regions, livestock are adorned with garlands, mirrors, bells, and saintly images as symbols of protection and gratitude.
This tradition, however, is not confined to northern Italy. Across regions such as Marche, Umbria, and Lazio, transhumance journeys extend to Tuscany’s Maremma plains, while in southern Italy, they persist between Abruzzo and the Apulian Table. Sardinia and Sicily also have strong transhumance roots, with ancient routes winding through the Gennargentu massif and the Nebrodi mountains.
Conservation Efforts and Cultural Significance
These paths, known as tratturi, are now subjects of conservation projects, aimed at preserving their historical and anthropological significance. Worn by centuries of livestock movement, these grassy, stony paths are dotted with artifacts bearing religious and superstitious symbols, serving as visual markers of a cultural legacy deeply rooted in Italy’s pastoral traditions.
Transhumance has inspired poetry and literature, from ancient writers like Virgil and Pliny the Younger to poets like Gabriele D’Annunzio. In central Italy, transhumance has given rise to “poet-shepherds” who continue to perform octaves, or verses in eighth rhyme, as part of their cultural heritage—a tradition recognized by Italy’s Network of Popular Culture.
A Practice in Perpetual Transformation
While modern transport options have replaced the ancient custom in many areas, transhumance still survives in pockets across Italy. It remains a vibrant event on the agro-pastoral calendar, symbolizing resilience and adaptation. From its historical roots to its ongoing evolution, this practice offers a unique window into Italy’s enduring connection to the land and its heritage.
Credits for the header image go to: Elspeth Zinneir
